Evaluation of Byproduct Combinations on Feedlot Performance, Carcass, and Fecal Characteristics

The first experiment compared inclusion levels of a 1:1 blend of Sweet Bran (SB) and dried distiller's grains (DDGS) byproducts in a dry-rolled corn feedlot ration on performance, carcass merit, and fecal characteristics. Heifers (n = 108; initial BW = 324� 13.6 kg) were blocked by BW, randomized to treatment, and fed for 142 d. Treatments were control (CONT, 8% DDGS), intermediate with 22% SB and 22% DDGS (INTERM), and all byproduct with 44% SB and 44% DDGS (ALL). Dry matter intake resulted in a quadratic response (P = 0.05) and ADG and carcass adjusted ADG tended to result in quadratic responses (P > 0.08) with INTERM being the highest. Final body weight was not different (P > 0.15) on a live basis, but was greater (P 0.19) in carcass characteristics. These data indicate that replacing dry-rolled corn in a finishing diet with a 1:1 blend of SB and DDGS increases feed efficiency and HCW without altering ADG calculated with live weights. Fecal pH and scores increased linearly (P 0.20) among treatments in overall ADG, G:F, or DMI. No differences (P > 0.06) were detected in HCW, dressing percentage, marbling score, KPH or USDA Yield Grade. Data suggests that when fed at 30% of the finishing diet DM, corn DDGS and sorghum WDGS can be blended or exchanged with no impact on finishing performance or carcass characteristics.Department of Animal Scienc